Showing posts with label .Station: Downtown. Show all posts
Showing posts with label .Station: Downtown. Show all posts

Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Cygnet @ QT Singapore - Bottomless Steak Frites

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From mornings to evenings, QT Singapore has you covered with the recent launch of three distinct dining experiences at Cygnet — Brunch, Steak Frites, and Cygnet Sundays. Thoughtfully curated for different dining occasions, the concepts take you from laid-back daytime dining to elevated evening experiences.

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We tried their Bottomless Steak Frites: Choose Your Indulgence, where we could pick from three different cuts. Prices start from $48 for the Classic Steak Frites, with premium upgrades to the Argentinian Ribeye at $78 and the luxurious Ōmi Wagyu at $108.

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Milk Loaf

Before the steaks arrived, we were served their signature in-house Milk Loaf. Its pillowy texture, paired with an intense milky flavour, completely stole our hearts.

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Ribeye 4.5/5

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Ōmi Wagyu 4.8/5

For steaks, we went with the Ribeye (200g) and Ōmi Wagyu (100g). Both were expertly cooked to medium doneness, even during the restaurant’s busiest hour and across subsequent orders. The Ribeye delivered satisfying, robust beefy notes, while the Wagyu was incredibly buttery and luscious.

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Oysters 5/5

If you drop by before 7:30pm, there is another treat waiting for you - Freshly shucked Oysters at just $1 each. We thoroughly enjoyed these Japanese oysters, which were delicate in taste with a mild brininess. For a truly indulgent evening, Moët & Chandon Champagne is also available at $18 per glass or $98 per bottle.

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Steak Frites is available Mondays to Saturdays from 5:30pm, with a two-hour dining limit per table. The $1 oysters promotion is limited to 12 oysters per guest and available until 7:30pm.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Cygnet by Sean Connolly
QT Singapore
35 Robinson Road
Singapore 068876
Tel: +65 6701 6833
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Fri: 630am - 1030am, 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat: 530pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at the Downtown MRT station. Take Exit E. Turn left and walk down Marina View. Turn right onto Commerce Street. Walk down Commerce Street to the traffic junction of Shenton Way and Tat Street. Cross the road and walk down Tat Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Shenton Way MRT station. Take Exit 6. Cross the road and walk down Mccallum Street. Turn right onto Robinson Road. Walk down Robinson Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Cross Street. Turn right onto Robinson Road. Walk down Robinson Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Friday, April 17, 2026

Les Canons @ IOI Building - A Taste of Parisian Bistro Charm in Singapore’s CBD

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Tucked within the bustling Central Business District at IOI Building, Les Canons by the ilLido Group brings the charm of a Parisian neighbourhood bistro into a relaxed, everyday dining setting. Inspired by the easy rhythms of city life, the all-day French bistro moves seamlessly from breakfast to after-work apéro and casual dinners, offering a repertoire of classic French comfort dishes at wallet-friendly prices.

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Duck Rillettes 4.2/5

We began with a selection of small bites, starting with the Duck Rillettes ($9). The slow-cooked duck, shredded and preserved in its own fat, delivered a rich, savoury depth, best enjoyed spread over a crusty baguette. While satisfying, we found ourselves wishing for more bread to match the generous portion of rillettes.

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Calamari with Cocktail Sauce 4.8/5

A standout starter was the Calamari with Cocktail Sauce ($10). Lightly battered and fried to a golden crisp, the calamari remained tender within. The accompanying Marie Rose-style cocktail sauce is creamy with a gentle tang, elevating the dish, making it irresistibly moreish.

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Escargots 4.2/5

The Escargots ($12) is a quintessential French staple, featuring half a dozen snails bathed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce. The escargots were clean-tasting, perfumed with the richness of butter and garlic. Once again, extra baguettes would have been welcome to mop up every last bit of the luscious sauce.

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Foie Gras 4/5

For something more indulgent, the Foie Gras ($16) offered a decadent experience. The pan-seared duck liver was beautifully caramelised on the outside while retaining a buttery, melt-in-the-mouth interior. Served atop a savoury pancake, it leaned heavily on richness, and a touch of acidity would have helped balance the dish.

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Coq Au Vin 4.2/5

Moving on to mains, the Coq au Vin ($16) embodied rustic French comfort. The spring chicken, gently braised in red wine, was tender and infused with deep, savoury flavours, a hearty and satisfying option.

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Pomme Puree 4.5/5

On the side, the Pomme Puree ($5) impressed with its silky-smooth texture and rich buttery finish. It is a simple yet delightful accompaniment that complements the mains perfectly.

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Steak Au Poivre 4.2/5

The Steak Au Poivre ($22) stands out as one of the best-value steak frites options in the CBD. The no-frills plate features a well-cooked steak coated in a creamy peppercorn sauce, paired with crispy fries. It delivers on flavour and value, making it a compelling choice for a casual French meal in the city.

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Mont Blanc 4/5

Desserts continued the classic French theme. The Mont Blanc ($9) layers meringue with light chantilly cream and sweetened chestnut puree, resulting in a nutty, creamy dessert that is indulgent without being overly heavy. The Mousse au Chocolat ($8) keeps things traditional, offering a smooth, airy texture with a deep, dark chocolate profile that will appeal to those who prefer less sweetness. Meanwhile, the Tarte Fine Aux Pommes ($9) provides a lighter finish, with its crisp, buttery pastry topped with thinly sliced caramelised apples and served alongside chantilly cream.

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Mousse Au Chocolat 4.2/5

Wine takes centre stage at Les Canons, with a thoughtfully curated list of over 50 French labels spanning regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Loire Valley and Rhône Valley. With glasses starting from $8 and bottles kept under $100, the programme encourages diners to enjoy wine as part of an everyday dining experience rather than a special occasion indulgence.

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Tarte Fine Aux Pommes 4.2/5

Les Canons evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of earlier days when accessible French dining spots such as The French Stall, The Black Sheep Cafe and Saveur first introduced many in Singapore to approachable French cuisine. At a time when French cuisine was largely confined to fine-dining establishments, these places reshaped perceptions — much as Les Canons aims to do today.

With its approachable pricing, comforting classics, and easy-going ambience, Les Canons successfully captures the spirit of a Parisian bistro while fitting neatly into the pace of CBD life. It is a welcoming spot for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners, offering a taste of France without the formality.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Les Canons
IOI Central Boulevard Towers
2 Central Boulevard
#01-07
Singapore 018916
Tel: +65 89260726
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 830am - 11am (Breakfast), 11am - 10pm
Sat: 11am - 10pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at the Downtown MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Shenton Way MRT station. Take Exit 4 or 6. Walk to Commerce Street. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, October 25, 2025

Numb Restaurant (川麻记) @ Marina One - Numb Restaurant Launches New Seasonal Sichuan Dishes Alongside 2nd Anniversary

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Numb Restaurant at Marina One celebrates its 2nd Anniversary with the launch of an exciting lineup of new seasonal Sichuan dishes, each crafted with the modern flair for which the restaurant is known.

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From now until 9 Nov 2025, diners can enjoy 50% off their highest-priced dish from the new menu with a minimum spend of $50. Plus, those who order the Spicy Chongqing Chilli Chicken ($40.80) and reply “Labubu Spicy” when prompted by the staff will unlock a complimentary upgrade to the upsized portion.

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Golden Bliss Jasmine Tea, Fortune Blossom Jasmine Matcha

We began our meal with two new cold-crafted tea drinks, the Golden Bliss Jasmine Tea ($7.80) and the Fortune Blossom Jasmine Matcha ($7.80). Both were light, refreshing and carried pleasant floral notes.

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Iberico Pork Belly with Garlic Sauce 4/5

Playfully presented, the Iberico Pork Belly with Garlic Sauce ($19.80) featured slices of boiled pork belly, drizzled with a tangy chilli and vinegar mix, alongside cucumber ribbons, ready to be dipped. The cucumbers provided a good balance of freshness and added crunch.

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Sichuan Beer-Braised Duck with Potatoes 4/5

The Sichuan Beer-Braised Duck with Potatoes ($34.80) arrived sizzling in a claypot, with tender chunks of duck stewed in a rich braise. This would be good to have with white rice.

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Golden Broth Crispy Rice Pot with Abalone and Seafood 3/5

Next was the Golden Broth Crispy Rice Pot with Abalone and Seafood ($46.80), which had a bed of brown rice mixed with prawns, abalone slices, edamame, carrots, and corn, topped with puffed rice. It was a pity that the broth leaned slightly bland and was overpowered by the brown rice’s nuttiness.

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Classic Chengdu Seabass in Sour Pickled Soup 4.2/5

The Classic Chengdu Seabass in Sour Pickled Soup ($39.80 for Small, $49.80 for Large) is from the existing menu and was just as satisfying as on our previous visits. The bowl came brimming with tender slices of seabass, enoki mushrooms, and Sichuan pickled cabbage. What stood out was the broth, which was flavourful yet clean, with a drinkable tang and a gentle heat that even spice-sensitive diners can enjoy.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Numb Restaurant
Marina One West Tower
#01-12
9 Straits View
Singapore 018935
Tel: +65 94601960
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line), Marina Bay (CC, NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm
(Closed on Sat & Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Shenton Way MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Straits View. Turn right onto Straits View. Walk down Straits View. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Marina Bay MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn left onto Commerce Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

VIOS @ One Raffles Quay - Modern Mediterranean Grain Bowls by Blu Kouzina

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VIOS at One Raffles Quay is a modern Mediterranean grain bowl spot conceptualised by the family behind Blu Kouzina. Named after the Greek word for “life”, VIOS is the brainchild of Gigi Tsakiris, daughter of Blu Kouzina’s founders. Drawing from her family’s heritage and her knowledge of food systems and nutrition, VIOS is built around providing nutritious and nourishing meals for the busy individuals in the CBD.

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The Greek 4/5

Each bowl begins with a wholesome base of grains or greens, layered with proteins, seasonal vegetables, and housemade dips and sauces prepared daily without additives or seed oils. Among the eight signature creations, I tried The Greek ($18.50), featuring grass-fed meatballs on a bed of organic bulgur, accompanied by harissa dip, tzatziki, a tomato and onion mix, diced cucumber, and Greek feta. The organic bulgur was nutty with a firm bite, providing a sturdy base for the boldly flavoured harissa and meatballs, which were well-seasoned, tender, and juicy with a satisfying bite. Freshness came through from the tomato-onion mix and crisp cucumber, while the tangy tzatziki tied the elements together, rounding out the bowl with balance and cohesion. Every VIOS bowl is finished with a generous drizzle of the Tsakiris family’s extra virgin olive oil, harvested from centuries-old groves in the Messinean Basin of Greece. These ancient trees yield koroneiki olives, prized for their high polyphenol content, which delivers antioxidants, anti-inflammatory benefits, and a peppery flavour lift.

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Pulled Beef Wrap 3.5/5

There are also wrap options. I tried the Pulled Beef Wrap ($17.50), which features a Greek pita filled with grass-fed beef, tzatziki, and a tomato-onion mix. The beef, braised with sundried tomato, brought a welcome depth of flavour. However, the filling was overly wet, which diluted the tzatziki and left the wrap partially soaked. Still, the pita managed to hold together and contributed a gentle wheatiness that complemented the filling.

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Tomato Focaccia 4.5/5

The lineup of bakes was sumptuous. I had the Tomato Focaccia ($6.50) and the Spanakopita, both of which were wholesome and delicious. The focaccia, served warm with its base soaked in olive oil and paired with an additional amount of the Tsakiris family’s extra-virgin olive oil, was one of the most flavorful I’ve had, especially with the sundried tomatoes generously strewn across the top, intensifying every bite.

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Spanakopita 4.5/5

The Spanakopita was delicious with pronounced herbaceous notes and a well-proportioned balance of flaky pastry to savoury filling.

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Aegean Glow, Salt & Sol

Drinks bring an interesting twist. I tried two refreshing concoctions - Aegean Glow ($6.50), a bright blend of citrus, cinnamon, and Greek herbs; and Salt & Sol ($6.50), a piquant mix of brine, lime juice, chilli, honey, sea salt, and chilli flakes.

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For those who prefer to customise, DIY Bowl options are also available. On lighter days, the soups, mezzes, and sides would make appealing alternatives, which I would love to try someday.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


VIOS
One Raffles Quay
South Tower
1 Raffles Quay
#01-02
Singapore 048583
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Wed: 830am - 730pm
Thu-Fri: 730am - 730pm
(Closed on Sat & Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk straight down Central Boulevard Road to Raffles Quay Road. Turn right on Raffles Quay. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station.Take Exit I. Walk straight to Raffles Quay Road. Turn right onto Raffles Quay Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Monday, September 8, 2025

Issho Izakaya @ Marina One - Second Outlet with Lunch & Dinner Omakase Experiences from $68

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Issho Izakaya has recently opened its second outlet at Marina One. In addition to their standard menu, this new outlet offers lunch and dinner omakase experiences, starting from $68, with options ranging from 8 to 11 courses.

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Bonito Walnut

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Homemade Tofu

We tried the 11+ course dinner omakase ($128), beginning with a trio of appetisers. The Bonito Walnut was crunchy and addictive with deep umami notes. The Homemade Tofu had a light, creamy mouthfeel, subtly flavoured with an aromatic corn sauce, which could have been less starchy.

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Horse Mackerel with Seaweed Somen

The Horse Mackerel with Seaweed Somen brought an intriguing contrast of savoury crunch and briny strands of “seaweed noodles.” A touch of vinegar helped balance the brininess.

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Sashimi 5/5

The Sashimi course was a highlight, featuring five indulgent belly cuts: Toro, Kanpachi Belly, Tai Belly, Kajiki Belly, and Salmon Belly, each unctuous with a lingering fullness.

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Prawn Wanton in Black Vinegar 2.5/5

A local fusion touch came next with Prawn Wanton in Black Vinegar, reminiscent of chilli oil dumplings. The flavours were familiar and enjoyable, but the thick, slightly stiff wanton skin and the lack of a juicy filling were a letdown.

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Tai 4.5/5

The Grilled Tai course delighted with its tender, flaky flesh and beautifully crispy scales. A squeeze of Japanese lime added a refreshing citrus lift.

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Chilli Crab 4.5/5

Fusion continued into the Agemono course with their take on Chilli Crab, featuring fried soft-shell crab served alongside housemade chilli sauce and toast. The batter was light and airy, keeping the crab succulent. The sauce struck a delicate balance of sweetness and heat, making this dish a pleasant surprise.

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Miyazaki A5 with Foie Gras Miso 3.5/5

The Miyazaki A5 with Foie Gras Miso followed. The desired beef flavour was there, but the texture and mouthfeel were slightly drier than expected. The accompanying grilled vegetables were full of flavour, and what I also loved about the dish was the savoury miso served at the side, which was infused with a subtle hint of foie gras funk that enhanced the flavour of the beef up a notch.

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Cheese Kani 2.8/5

Instead of the usual temaki and rice course, we were served Cheese Kani and Beef Noodle with Clam Soup. The Cheese Kani, layered with gooey cheese, macaroni, and ikura, leaned indulgent but heavy, overshadowing the natural sweetness of the crab.

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Beef Noodle 3.5/5

The Beef Noodle, a local interpretation of Japanese ingredients, was tasty, though a touch of grated yuzu zest could have brightened the richness and tied it more seamlessly to the overall theme. I reckon a less saucier Rice course would have given a much more cohesive flow of the omakase experience. The accompanying clam soup, while pleasant, could have carried more depth.

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Dessert

Dessert was simple yet satisfying with sweet and juicy melon.

The fusion take on the omakase was refreshing and delivered a few standout dishes. That said, a stronger emphasis on seasonal ingredients, a more defined progression of courses, and greater refinement in execution would have elevated the experience into something truly memorable.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Issho Izakaya
Marina One Show Gallery
West Tower
5 Straits View
#01-14
Singapore 018935
Tel: +65 6592 8876
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Shenton Way (TE Line), Marina Bay (CC, NS, TE Line), Downtown (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am – 3pm, 530pm – 10pm
Sat-Sun & PH: 11am – 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Shenton Way MRT station. Take Exit 1 or 5. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Marina Bay MRT station, Take Exit 1. Walk to Marina Way. Cross the road and walk to destination. [Map]

3) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit D or E. Walk to Straits View Road. Walk down Straits View Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]